Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays is over, chock full of buying gifts and hosting parties, it’s time to shift the focus back to YOU. Reconnect with yourself to evaluate your self-improvement goals for the new year and make positive habits that will promote good mental health and well-being.
Because good mental health is key to good overall physical health, it’s important to prioritize your mental well-being as you embrace a new year full of new possibilities.
About 40 percent of American adults say they are stressed about their mental health, with about three in 10 expecting to make New Year’s resolutions related to mental health, says the American Psychiatric Association. For half of those looking to make a resolution focused on mental health, here are the top resolutions:
- Exercise more – 65 percent
- Meditate – 45 percent
- Consult with a therapist – 38 percent
- Focus on spirituality – 37 percent
- Take a break from social media – 32 percent
No matter what your goals for 2025 are, relying on a therapist in Danville CA can get you started on the path to success.
Tips For Developing Good Habits For the New Year
Whether you want to get inspired to work out more or you want to practice more mindfulness in the new year, here are some tips to guide you.
- Choose a goal that motivates you: The likelihood of sticking to your goal over the long term will be higher if you choose one that truly motivates you. You’re also more likely to have success if you’re influenced by others, such as a workout partner, doctor, or spouse.
- Break down big goals into manageable chunks: By tackling small chunks, you will be less likely to feel overwhelmed. Let’s say your goal is to get in better shape and run a 5K race. Start with a walk around the block rather than sprinting a couple of miles right off. Sometimes, just the act of signing up for the race is the shot in the arm you need to get motivated.
- Practice self-care. Whether as part of structured therapy sessions, daily exercise routines, or regular coffee dates with friends, take the time to take care of YOU. Don’t start off the new year sweeping your own needs under the rug. And it doesn’t take a lot: even a bubble bath, walk around the block, 10-minute meditation, or a yoga class will do it.
- Be kind to yourself. It can take time to make meaningful change. Don’t beat yourself up over small setbacks. Take them as learning opportunities, adjust your goals, and move on.
- Celebrate small wins. Why wait till you have lost 50 pounds to celebrate, or that big promotion at work? Celebrate the little wins that are helping you to get there. Reward yourself with a new outfit when you lose the first 10, or treat yourself to your favorite coffee after initiating the first conversation with your boss about moving up. Waiting till the big win can sideline your efforts and lead to frustration. Think of self-improvement as a journey, not a destination.
- Prioritize sleep. Mental health and sleep are interconnected. Studies show that up to 90 percent of people with major depression also have problems sleeping. Give your body the rest it needs; try to get to bed an hour earlier each night.
- Limit your screen time. Studies show that high amounts of screen time can impact mental health, including depression. Indeed, it can affect your quality of sleep, your relationships, and increased feelings of depression and anxiety. Be mindful of the time you’re spending online, choosing to use social media platforms in a positive way within a limited time period each day.
- Lean on others: Achieving mental health goals isn’t something you can do in a bubble. It’s much easier when you get support from friends, family, and mental health professionals. Even support groups can bring people together who are experiencing similar challenges. Get out there, lean on others, and ask for help when you need it. Connecting with others will give you the encouragement and accountability you need to stay the course.
- Set a new date: If your initial resolution date fell short or you lost focus, don’t despair. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and choose a new date. No need to wait till New Year’s 2026 to start again.
Contact Us For a Free Initial Consultation Today
As we head into 2025, we are here for you as you navigate the challenges of a new year. From group to individual therapy, you can count on us to provide you with the resources and support you need. To schedule your free consultation, contact Growing Together Preventive & Psychological Services today.
